In the hustle and bustle of daily life, finding the perfect snack that checks all the boxes—tasty, healthy, and easy to make—can feel like a challenge. But let me share a delightful discovery that transformed my snack game: 3-Ingredient Banana Bites. Picture this: soft, slightly chewy morsels, the comforting aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, and the sweet satisfaction of enjoying a guilt-free treat.
When those overripe bananas start piling up on my counter, instead of letting them slip away into oblivion, I whip up these bites that only require a handful of pantry staples. They’re not only vegan and gluten-free, but they also come together in a matter of minutes! Whether you need a quick breakfast, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a healthy dessert to satisfy a sweet tooth, these banana bites are your answer. So, why not join me in creating a batch of these scrumptious goodies that your family will love, bringing joy back to snack time?
Why are Banana Donut Holes a Must-Try?
Quick and simple: With just three ingredients, whipping up these banana donut holes is a breeze—perfect for anyone, whether you’re an experienced chef or a kitchen newbie!
Irresistibly delicious: The combination of ripe bananas and cinnamon creates a warm, comforting flavor that’s hard to resist, making them a sweet addition to any meal or snack time.
Healthy indulgence: Naturally gluten-free and vegan, these bites are not only good for you but are also free from refined sugars, offering a guilt-free way to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Versatile options: Feeling adventurous? You can easily customize your banana holes by adding cocoa powder for a chocolate twist or mixing in some nuts for crunch.
Crowd pleaser: These banana bites are sure to impress friends and family, making them a fantastic choice for gatherings, lunchboxes, or just a cozy snack at home.
Banana Donut Holes Ingredients
For the Banana Mixture
• Large ripe banana – The riper your banana, the sweeter and more flavorful your donut holes will be!
• Almond flour or oat flour – This gluten-free base provides structure; use regular flour for a denser treat if desired.
• Cinnamon (optional) – Adds a warm spice to the flavor profile; feel free to skip if you prefer a more neutral taste.
For the Optional Coating
• Coconut sugar – Adds a delightful sweetness; this is a great way to enhance the flavor of your banana donut holes.
• Shredded coconut – Use for a chewy texture that complements the soft interior of the donut holes.
• Additional spices (nutmeg or cocoa powder) – Get creative! Nutmeg adds warmth, while cocoa powder can bring a chocolatey twist to your bites.
Enjoy this simple, nutritious treat that embodies the sweet essence of bananas, making them your go-to snack!
How to Make Banana Donut Holes
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Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy removal once baked.
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Mash the Banana: In a medium bowl, mash your large ripe banana with a fork until it’s completely smooth—this will be the sweet base of your donut holes.
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Combine Ingredients: Add almond flour (or oat flour) to the mashed banana. If you’d like to include cinnamon, now’s the time! Stir until a soft, sticky dough forms.
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Shape the Dough: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking, and roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch wide, ensuring they are compact and round.
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Bake the Donut Holes: Arrange the balls on your prepared baking sheet, and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they appear slightly golden and set.
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(Optional) Coat the Bites: Once out of the oven, while they’re still warm, roll the banana donut holes in a mixture of coconut sugar and cinnamon or shredded coconut for a delightful finish.
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Cool and Serve: Allow the banana donut holes to cool slightly before enjoying. These bites can be savored warm or at room temperature.
Optional: Add mini chocolate chips for an even sweeter treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Banana Donut Holes Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your banana donut holes and make them uniquely yours with these fun ideas!
- Nut-Free: Use sunbutter or soy nut butter in place of any nut-based ingredients for a kid-friendly snack.
- Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips to the dough for an indulgent and rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Banana Oatmeal Bites: Mix in rolled oats for added texture and fiber—perfect for a heartier snack!
- Cocoa Twist: Add unsweetened cocoa powder to create a chocolatey version. Pair it with a sprinkle of sea salt for an upscale treat.
- Fruit Fusion: Toss in a handful of dried fruit, like cranberries or raisins, for a burst of sweetness and color.
- Spice It Up: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal flavor twist that’s perfect for fall.
- Protein Boost: Stir in a scoop of your favorite protein powder; it’s a delightful way to energize your snacks!
- No-Bake Version: For a quick, no-bake treat, mix the mashed banana with nut butter and rolled oats, then chill and roll into bites.
These variations let you embrace creativity, making your banana bites even more delightful while delighting your taste buds!
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Banana Donut Holes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can mash the bananas and combine them with the almond flour (or oat flour) and cinnamon up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, just roll the dough into balls and pop them in the oven for that warm, fragrant finish. For longer storage, form the balls and freeze them for up to 3 months; bake directly from frozen, adding an extra couple of minutes to the baking time. By preparing these ahead, you’ll enjoy guilt-free, fuss-free snacks any time you need!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Donut Holes
Fridge: Store your banana donut holes in an airtight container; they will stay fresh for up to 5 days. Enjoy them cold or warm them slightly before serving!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bites in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’re best enjoyed within 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, simply pop the frozen banana donut holes in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Room Temperature: If you plan to consume them within a day, you can leave the banana donut holes at room temperature, covered with a kitchen towel, but they may lose freshness quicker.
Expert Tips for Banana Donut Holes
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Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your donut holes will be. Look for brown spots for maximum sweetness.
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Proper Dough Consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more almond or oat flour until it’s manageable. Ideally, it should be soft yet hold together.
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Roll with Wet Hands: To prevent sticking when shaping the donut holes, wet your hands slightly. This simple trick makes a huge difference!
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Customize Your Coating: Experiment with different coatings! Coconut sugar, cinnamon, or shredded coconut can elevate your banana donut holes further for a tasty finish.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your donut holes during baking. They can go from perfectly golden to overdone quickly, so check at the lower end of the baking time.
What to Serve with 3-Ingredient Banana Bites?
These delightful bites are perfect for creating a well-rounded meal filled with love and flavor.
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Creamy Yogurt: The smooth texture of yogurt provides a cool contrast, enhancing the sweet banana flavor while adding protein to your snack.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant fruits will brighten up your table and add refreshing flavors that complement the natural sweetness of the banana bites.
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Nut Butter Dip: Pairing banana bites with almond or peanut butter creates a protein-packed treat that is both satisfying and delicious.
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Granola: The crunchy texture of granola can add a delightful crunch to your bites, making them even more enjoyable with a nice contrast.
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Coconut Milk Smoothie: Blend up a lightweight coconut milk smoothie with tropical fruits for creamy goodness alongside your banana bites; it’s a match made in heaven!
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Dark Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted dark chocolate drizzled over the bites creates an indulgent yet healthy treat for chocolate lovers.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a joyful and delectable experience for you and your loved ones!
Banana Donut Holes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe bananas for the banana donut holes?
Absolutely! The best bananas for making banana donut holes are those that are very ripe, with plenty of brown spots. These bananas have the sweetest flavor and the best texture, making your donut holes irresistible and naturally sweet.
What is the best way to store banana donut holes?
You can keep your banana donut holes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. If you prefer them warm, you can briefly microwave them before enjoying. Just make sure they are cool before transferring to the container to prevent moisture buildup!
Can I freeze banana donut holes?
Yes! To freeze, lay your banana donut holes out on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer until firm—about 2 hours. Then, transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll be best enjoyed within 3 months. When you’re ready to snack, just pop them in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
What should I do if my dough is too sticky?
If you find the dough too sticky while making the banana donut holes, simply add a little more almond or oat flour until it’s manageable. Aim for a soft dough that still holds its shape when rolled into balls.
Can banana donut holes be made nut-free?
Very! If you need to avoid nuts, you can use regular flour instead of almond or oat flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may be denser, but it will still taste delicious! Plus, if you want to add a protein punch, consider mixing in some ground flaxseed or chia seeds.
Are banana donut holes suitable for my pet?
While bananas are safe for most pets in small amounts, it’s best to keep these donut holes away from them. Ingredients like almond flour or any sweeteners can be harmful to pets. Stick to giving them plain banana as a treat instead!
Banana Donut Holes: Easy, Guilt-Free Sweet Bites to Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mash your large ripe banana with a fork until completely smooth.
- Add almond flour (or oat flour) and cinnamon to the mashed banana, and stir until a soft, sticky dough forms.
- Wet your hands slightly and roll the dough into small balls, about 1 inch wide.
- Arrange the balls on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Once out of the oven, roll the banana donut holes in a mixture of coconut sugar and cinnamon or shredded coconut.
- Allow the donut holes to cool slightly before enjoying.